Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has mourned the passing of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, who joined his ancestors on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 91.

In a heartfelt statement, Governor Abiodun described the monarch’s death as a profound and painful loss to Ijebuland, Ogun State, and the nation at large.

The governor noted the historical weight of the day, as the monarch’s transition coincided with the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, marking what he called “profound loss not just for Ogun State, but for the entire nation.”

Oba Adetona, who ascended the throne in 1960, was widely respected as one of Africa’s longest-reigning and most influential traditional rulers.

Throughout his reign, he championed development, cultural preservation, and education, notably elevating the Ojude Oba festival to global recognition. His leadership ushered in decades of peace, growth, and pride for the Ijebu people.

Governor Abiodun praised the monarch’s lifelong dedication to public service, justice, and integrity, noting his contributions to grassroots empowerment and his lasting legacy in traditional institution reform.

He extended his deepest condolences to the Adetona royal family, the Ijebu Traditional Council, and all indigenes of Ijebuland.

As the state begins a period of mourning, Governor Abiodun prayed for the peaceful repose of the monarch’s soul and pledged that his legacy will continue to be honoured for generations.